“It’s 50 years since I wrote Streets of London and it saddens me that the issues raised in the song are still so relevant today. When the idea of a single to support Crisis was mooted, I was very pleased that it might help raise awareness of the charity’s work and the wider issue of homelessness. I have been performing a Christmas concert in aid of Crisis for a few years now; inspired by its commitment to improving the circumstances of so many.

“I was also thrilled that the wonderful Annie Lennox was prepared to lend her voice to a new recording, and when I discovered that Crisis had its own choir, it offered the perfect opportunity to create a new and exciting version of a song so many people know.”

„Have you seen the old manIn the closed-down marketKicking up the paperWith his worn out shoes?In his eyes you see no prideHand held loosely at his sideYesterday’s paper telling yesterday’s news

So how can you tell me you’re lonelyAnd say for you that the sun don’t shine?Let me take you by the hand andLead you through the streets of LondonShow you something to make you change your mind

Have you seen the old girlWho walks the streets of LondonDirt in her hair and her clothes in rags?She’s no time for talkingShe just keeps right on walkingCarrying her home in two carrier bags

So how can you tell me you’re lonelyAnd say for you that the sun don’t shine?Let me take you by the hand andLead you through the streets of LondonShow you something to make you change your mind

In the all night cafeAt a quarter past elevenSame old man sitting there on his ownLooking at the worldOver the rim of his teacupEach tea lasts an hourAnd he wanders home alone

So how can you tell me you’re lonelyDon’t say for you that the sun don’t shineLet me take you by the hand andLead you through the streets of LondonShow you something to make you change your mind

Have you seen the old manOutside the Seaman’s MissionMemory fading with the medal ribbons that he wearsIn our winter cityThe rain cries a little pityFor one more forgotten heroAnd a world that doesn’t care

So how can you tell me you’re lonelyAnd say for you that the sun don’t shine?Let me take you by the hand andLead you through the streets of LondonShow you something to make you change your mind“